In short
- Entry to the memorial is completely free.
- Parking costs $10 per vehicle and lasts a year.
- National Park Passes do not cover the parking fee.
In this article
Visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial is affordable because there are no individual entry tickets. However, the memorial charges a mandatory parking fee for personal vehicles. This guide breaks down the exact costs, available discounts, and how tour packages handle the fee.
Do you need a ticket for Mount Rushmore?
No, you do not need an entry ticket to visit the memorial.
Entry is free for all visitors. You can walk the Avenue of Flags, view the monument, and explore the museum without paying an admission fee. The only required cost for independent travelers is parking.
How much does parking cost at Mount Rushmore?
Parking is $10 per vehicle for standard cars.
This fee is valid for a full year from the date of purchase. Keep your receipt if you plan to return. The facility has designated lanes and spaces for RVs and trailers. Parking fees apply to all personal vehicles entering the memorial boundaries.
Can I use a National Park Pass for parking?
No, National Park Passes do not cover the parking fee.
The parking facility operates separately from the entry gate. Because entry is free, standard National Park Passes have no effect here. You still need to pay the $10 parking fee when you arrive.
Are parking costs included in guided tours?
Yes, most commercial tours cover the parking fee in your ticket.
If you book a guided bus or shuttle tour, you do not need to pay the $10 vehicle fee. Commercial buses pay a separate parking fee. This is usually covered in your overall tour price. Tour prices start from around $164.30 and often include other nearby stops.
How much does a self-guided audio tour cost?
Downloadable audio tours start from around $29.99.
If you prefer to drive yourself, you can buy an audio tour app. You still need to pay the $10 parking fee at the memorial. Audio apps use your phone's GPS to play stories and directions as you drive the Black Hills. Tour prices change based on the platform.
Are there other costs inside the memorial?
Food and souvenirs cost extra inside the memorial.
You can buy meals at Carvers' Café. They serve burgers, salads, and Monumental Ice Cream. The Mount Rushmore Gift Shop sells books, Black Hills gold jewelry, and standard souvenirs. Purchases at the gift shop support park improvements.
Questions travellers ask
Is parking valid for multiple days?
Yes, your $10 parking receipt is valid for one full year. You can return multiple times without paying again.
Do seniors get a discount on parking?
Yes, seniors aged 62 and older can park for $5. Active-duty military personnel can park for free.
Are dogs allowed if I bring my car?
Pets are only allowed in the parking garages and the pet exercise area. They must be on a 6-foot leash.
